A new specimen of Dicynodon traquairi (Newton)(Synapsida: Anomodontia) from the Late Permian (Tartarian) of northern Scotland

Cruickshank, A. R.I., Clark, N. D.L. and Adams, C. (2005) A new specimen of Dicynodon traquairi (Newton)(Synapsida: Anomodontia) from the Late Permian (Tartarian) of northern Scotland. Palaeontologia Africana, 41, pp. 35-43.

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Abstract

A recently discovered natural mould of a complete, almost undistorted, skull and lower jaw of a dicynodont (c. 237 mm overall length), in a block of Upper Permian sandstone (= Dicynodon Assemblage Zone: Hopeman Sandstone Formation) from Clashach Quarry, Hopeman, Morayshire, is described using novel techniques, including Computed Tomography scanning (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and rapid-prototype modelling. It is assigned to the taxon Dicynodon traquairi (Newton, 1893). When compared with Dicynodon lacerticeps Owen, 1845, it is distinguished principally by having the pineal opening sunk deeply between the diverging parietals, subparallel pterygoid rami narrowly separated, with no transverse flanges, and in addition, a deeply grooved lower jaw symphysis. The southern African fauna lived on river flats in a higher (southern) palaeolatitude than the possibly desert-dwelling Scottish species. The Hopeman Sandstone Formation is of the same age as the better-known Cutties Hillock Sandstone Formation, whose fauna is briefly discussed and reviewed.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Clark, Dr Neil
Authors: Cruickshank, A. R.I., Clark, N. D.L., and Adams, C.
College/School:University Services > Library and Collection Services > Museum and Art Gallery
Journal Name:Palaeontologia Africana
Publisher:University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, Bernard Price Institute for Palaeontological Research
ISSN:0078-8554
ISSN (Online):2410-4418

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